Description
A 12mm Perrin revolver, serial number 800, in excellent condition. This French Model 1859 revolver was one of the rarer firearms imported during the American Civil War, known for its double action only mechanism and innovative 12mm self-contained metallic cartridges. Unlike traditional revolvers of its time, the Perrin was designed without a hammer spur, requiring the trigger to be pulled for each shot, which made it highly advanced for the era.
This revolver bears the “Perrin & Cie Bte” marking and showcases a bright polished metal finish with smooth walnut grips. The serial number, 800, is clearly marked on the frame, indicating it as one of the earlier models potentially used during the Civil War. The revolver is fully functional, with a crisp action and all original parts intact, including the hidden ejector rod mechanism, which was a notable feature for protecting the ejector and allowing streamlined operation. The connection to the Civil War adds historical significance to this already remarkable piece, making it a highly desirable addition to any collection of 19th-century firearms.









Hello, my name is Aaron Newcomer. I am a collector and researcher of early 19th century breech-loading firearms systems, with a particular focus on the work of Jean Samuel Pauly and Casimir Lefaucheux. I collect cartridges and documents related to these types of firearms and conduct research on these topics, furthering my understanding and knowledge of these historical firearms and their place in the evolution of firearms technology. My collection and research reflect my dedication to preserving and understanding the history and technical innovations of these early firearms systems.